Coaching
Proven Practices
How I work, what to expect, and whether we’re a good fit.
My philosophy
How change happens
Most people already know what needs to happen — they just need someone to help them get honest about it. My coaching isn’t about giving you answers. It’s about asking the right questions until your own answers become impossible to ignore.
I’ve spent over a decade coaching leaders at every stage — from eager entrepreneurs and individual contributors to new managers and seasoned executives. What I’ve learned is that change happens most effectively when it’s grounded in reality, alongside a supportive and direct coach who sits outside the day-to-day.
How it works
What our work looks like
Every engagement follows the same three steps — though the pace, and the work inside them, is always yours.
01
Discovery call
We start with a short call to see if we’re a good fit. I want to understand where you are, where you want to go, and what’s been getting in the way.
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02
Our approach
Coaching isn’t one-size-fits-all. Over 10+ years I’ve coached using a range of frameworks and styles, and I draw on whichever combination fits you and the work at hand.
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03
Coaching Sessions
We meet at a cadence that works for you — typically bi-weekly or monthly, for 60 minutes. Most engagements span 3–9 months.
Who I work with
You might be a good fit if…
Yes →
You’re at a crossroads and feel stuck between what you have and what you want.
Yes →
You need structure and accountability, not just inspiration.
Yes →
You want someone direct who will tell you the truth, not just validate you.
Not yet →
You’re looking for therapy or mental health support — I’m a coach, not a therapist.
Kind words
What clients say
“Tess was instrumental in helping me navigate a major career transition in early 2026. Thanks to her coaching and advocacy, I moved from External Affairs Lead at Diverse Charter Schools Coalition to Client Relationship Executive / Sales Vice President at Deloitte.
I highly recommend connecting with Tess to anyone considering a career shift. She brings an exceptional blend of strategic questioning, practical support, and steadfast encouragement. Working together, she helped me:
- Clarify my vision — asked targeted, insightful questions that helped me identify my core priorities and career goals.
- Translate my experience — taught me how to articulate my background effectively for new industries and executive roles.
- Elevate my brand & network — revamped my resume and actively introduced me to key contacts within her expansive network.
- Own my value — empowered me to see my skills as highly valuable and transferable across sectors.
Tess gave me both the strategic roadmap and the confidence to land an incredible new role.”
Featured
Partnerships
Organizations I’ve worked with
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Harvard Admissions and Financial Aid Office
Denver Public Schools
Teach For America
DaVita Kidney Care
Arapahoe County
Crankstart Foundation
Roaring Fork School District
College Track
Denver Public Schools Foundation
Educators 4 Excellence
Promise54
Full Frame Initiative
Propel America
RISE Network
Margulf Foundation
School Board Partners
Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness
Diverse Charter School Coalition
The Rithm Project
Seven Focus